Paint Calculator

Calculate exactly how many gallons of paint you need for walls, ceilings, and trim. Enter room dimensions, ceiling height, number of coats, and subtract doors and windows for an accurate estimate.

Room Paint Calculator

Paint Calculation Formula

Wall Area = 2 × (length + width) × height Subtract = doors × 20 sq ft + windows × 15 sq ft Net Area = Wall Area − Subtractions Gallons = (Net Area / coverage) × coats Ceiling Area = length × width (if including ceiling)

Paint Coverage by Finish

FinishCoverage per GallonBest For
Flat / Matte400–450 sq ftCeilings, low-traffic walls
Eggshell350–400 sq ftLiving rooms, bedrooms
Satin350–400 sq ftKitchens, bathrooms, trim
Semi-Gloss300–350 sq ftTrim, cabinets, doors
Gloss250–300 sq ftAccent features, furniture

Frequently Asked Questions

How many coats of paint do I need?+
Most paint projects require 2 coats for full, even coverage. Going from a dark color to a light one (or vice versa) may need 3 coats. Using a primer first reduces the number of top-coat applications needed.
Should I use primer?+
Yes, primer is recommended when painting over dark colors, new drywall, stained surfaces, or switching color families dramatically. Primer seals the surface and improves paint adhesion and color accuracy.